13 best sunscreens for kids, according to experts and moms

Convincing your kids to slather on sunscreen can sometimes be even more challenging than getting them to eat their veggies, but it’s a necessity when it comes to protecting them from the sun’s harsh rays. And what makes it even harder is that there are so many SPF formulas to choose from. While choosing one that works best for your kids can feel overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be.

Whether you’re a seasoned parent or have just welcomed your first child, there’s a sunscreen out there to suit your family’s unique needs. To come up with our top picks, we sought out a team of skin care pros and real-life moms to share their advice and SPF product recommendations.

Consider this your comprehensive SPF shopping guide. Keep reading or use the links below to see the best sunscreens for kids, according to our sources and research.

There are a few areas you should consider before purchasing a sunscreen for your kids:

When you walk down a sunscreen aisle, you’ll find two categories of products to choose from:

There’s no right answer as to which type is better for children, but the pros we spoke with generally recommend physical sunscreens, saying their ingredients can be less irritating (making them ideal for sensitive skin) and aren’t absorbed into the skin.

However, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner notes that chemical sunscreens have been used for decades and are a very popular choice.

“The benefits in preventing sun damage and skin cancer from the sun outweighs any perceived safety risk. ... In my opinion, ultimately, the best sunscreen is the one you’re actually using on your skin,” says Zeichner, who's the director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital’s department of dermatology.

Whichever sunscreen you do choose for your child, just watch out for unnecessary ingredients like fragrances, he adds.

The SPF (or sun protection factor) of each sunscreen varies; you’re likely to find a wide range that runs from SPF 15 to SPF 100. In general, most of us assume that a higher SPF rating offers more protection, but is there a point where the effectiveness doesn’t actually increase?

“Anything above an SPF 30 is negligibly more effective, and thicker in formulation, making it harder to use. For everyday use I like SPF 30, and for beach days or high-intensity sun days one can use an SPF 50-70 for higher protection,” Mian says.

Besides, higher SPFs can sometimes give you a "false sense of security," according to Dr. Amy Wechsler, an NYC-based board-certified dermatologist and psychiatrist.

Julie Ramos, vice president of marketing at the lifestyle brand ATTITUDE, agrees.

“People assume they’re better protected with high SPFs, so they tend to spend more time in the sun and reapply sunscreen less often, increasing the risk of sunburns, melanoma and other types of skin damage,” she tells us.

In addition to the SPF level, search for a sunscreen that offers broad spectrum protection.

“The SPF value refers to the sunscreen’s ability to protect against UVB rays, which are responsible for sunburn. The word 'spectrum' means that the sunscreen also protects against UVA rays, which are responsible for skin cancer,” Zeichner explains.

Even if you have the best intentions and want to protect your newborn from the sun, the pros we polled agreed that infants shouldn’t use sunscreen because their skin is ultra-sensitive.

“You should not use sunscreen on children under the age of 6 months. During that period, they should be protected from the sun by physical methods like clothing and umbrellas,” Zeichner explains.

With so many sunscreen formats to choose from, you might be wondering which one is best for your child. Here’s a quick breakdown of each:

As always, it’s ultimately all about what works best for you and your family, but Spilman says the EWG tends to recommend lotions or sticks as the best options for children.

“Sprays cloud the air with tiny particles that may not be safe to breathe. It can also be difficult to apply an even layer of sunscreen that is thick and uniform enough to ensure proper UV protection,” she explains.

SPF: 50 | Active ingredient: Zinc oxide | Type of protection: Physical | Application: Lotion | Water resistance: 80 min.

“This is a really great natural sunscreen for kids’ skin,” says Dr. Liia Ramachandra, a skin care expert and former pharma executive. “What I love about it is that it is a stick, so kids can easily apply it by themselves, and it is super fun.”

The No. 1 Amazon bestseller (in the Baby Sun Protection category) has garnered a staggering 15,600-plus verified five-star ratings. Its broad spectrum formula is gentle on kids’ skin and absorbs quickly without leaving behind any sticky residue.

SPF: 50 | Active ingredient: Zinc oxide | Type of protection: Physical | Application: Stick | Water resistance: 80 min.

Dr. Debra Jaliman, a New York City-based dermatologist and author of the book “Skin Rules: Trade Secrets From a Top New York Dermatologist,” enjoys this sunscreen stick and notes that it’s ideal for travel. “It’s great for babies and older kids and has safe organic ingredients,” she says.

The skin care savant particularly appreciates how easy it is to apply the stick to tricky spots, such as the ears. She describes the formula as “super hydrating.” The ingredient list — which includes jojoba oil, avocado oil and cocoa — certainly backs up her case.

SPF: 50 | Active ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide | Type of protection: Physical | Application: Lotion | Water resistance: 80 min.

Jaliman is a fan of this mineral sunscreen for a few particular reasons.

“It’s fragrance-free, non-allergenic and won’t irritate babies’ eyes,” she says.

The pediatrician- and dermatologist-tested formula offers broad spectrum protection and is free of fragrance, nanoparticles, parabens, PABA and phthalates.

SPF: 50 | Active ingredients: Zinc oxide | Type of protection: Physical | Application: Lotion | Water resistance: 80 min.

“Mustela focuses on babies, so this is my go-to,” Dr. Angela J. Lamb, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, tells us.

The mineral sunscreen can be used for both face and body and was specifically formulated for babies’ sensitive skin. The lightweight lotion comes in a sizeable pump bottle with enough product to go around for the whole family. Luckily, it also has a sheer finish, and it even works on eczema-prone skin.

SPF: 50 | Active ingredient: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | Type of protection: Physical | Application: Lotion | Water resistance: 80 min.

Jaliman raves about this hypoallergenic mineral sunscreen that’s free of fragrances and silicone. “It has good ingredients such as oat, shea butter and fruit extracts. It’s great for children with irritated skin,” she says.

Other notable features include the hydrating formula and a non-sticky, water-resistant finish.

SPF: 50 | Active ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene | Type of protection: Chemical | Application: Stick | Water resistance: 80 min.

Abbey Miller, a Massachusetts-based nurse who has two young daughters, swears by this clear sunscreen stick.

“My sister-in-law, who is a seasoned mom of two, got me into this. I have two littles, ages 4 and 2, and although they love playing in the sun, they hate staying still so I can apply sunscreen, especially to their face. This roll-on sunscreen applies easily, is totally mess-free, and my kids think it’s fun. They even want to try to put it on themselves,” she tells us.

Lamb is also a fan of the stick for one special reason: “It can be difficult to find a stick sunscreen that is also clear. This one has a nice, clean smell and is easy to apply,” she says.

SPF: 50 | Active ingredient: Zinc oxide | Type of protection: Physical | Application: Spray | Water resistance: 80 min.

This mineral sunscreen offers broad spectrum protection with the help of its active ingredient: zinc oxide. It’s reef-friendly, water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and free of parabens, gluten, alcohol and phthalates.

In addition to protecting skin from the sun, the gentle formula also treats skin to a healthy dose of antioxidants while hydrating and softening it.

SPF: 50 | Active ingredient: Zinc oxide | Type of protection: Mineral | Application: Lotion | Water resistance: 80 min.

Eczema-prone and sensitive skin needs a bit of extra TLC, and this bestselling formula (it has nearly 6,000 verified five-star ratings on Amazon) seems to be up to the task. The broad spectrum sunscreen offers SPF 50 coverage for the face and body and is formulated with soothing oat.

“I personally love Aveeno, and all my kids (from age 7 to 14 years old) use it. I love it because it is mineral, great for sensitive skin, has SPF 50 and is super affordable,” Ramachandra says. As an added bonus, it’s free of fragrances, parabens and phthalate.

SPF: 50 | Active ingredient: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene | Type of protection: Chemical | Application: Spray | Water resistance: 80 min.

Reef-friendly? Check. Broad spectrum? Yep! Ramachandra is a fan of this lightweight spray that tackles both UVA and UVB rays. “This is a brand I use for myself and for my kids, especially when we go swimming,” she says.

The SPF 50 formula is water and sweat-resistant up to 80 minutes and also includes antioxidant-rich vitamin C, green tea and açaí extracts that nourish and protect your skin.

“I would recommend this for a bit older kids, such as teens, due to the antioxidants present,” Ramachandra says.

SPF: 50 | Active ingredient: Zinc oxide | Type of protection: Physical | Application: Lotion | Water resistance: 80 min.

Nicole Denver, a mother of two children under the age of 3, likes to keep this sunscreen on hand for any outdoor adventures.

“I like that it is free of toxins and feels like I am protecting my babies from more than just the sun. It is mineral-based but still easy to rub in, which is an added bonus!” she explains.

The lightweight, fragrance-free formula includes 24 plant-based ingredients that join forces to offer broad spectrum SPF 50 protection, and it's ideal for sensitive skin. It’s also vegan, cruelty-free and verified as a safe option by the EWG.

SPF: 40 | Active ingredient: Zinc oxide | Type of protection: Physical | Application: Lotion | Water resistance: 40 min.

Want to protect your baby or toddler from the sun’s harsh rays — using only natural ingredients? You can rest easy while using this pediatrician-tested broad spectrum mineral sunscreen that fights off UVA and UVB rays and offers SPF 40 coverage.

The multitasker is formulated with a mix of hydrating, soothing and simple ingredients like sunflower and jojoba oils, organic chamomile and calendula. Plus, it’s reef-safe!

Even adults who have sensitive skin use this for themselves to rave reviews. One notes on Badger Balm's website, "It is THICK, but I like that because I can feel when I've used enough. It also feels nice on my skin, which is sensitive and prone to eczema rashes."

SPF: 35 | Active ingredient: Zinc oxide | Type of protection: Physical | Application: Stick | Water resistance: 80 min.

Lamb is fond of this mineral sunscreen that was created with darker skin tones in mind. Finding the right mix of protection and ease of blending is key for darker complexions, and this stick seems to have cracked the code.

It features reef-safe, non-nano zinc and several hydrating ingredients like shea butter and coconut alkanes. In addition, it offers 80 minutes of water resistance, broad spectrum protection and a travel-friendly format.

SPF: 35 | Active ingredient: Non-nano zinc oxide, sea fennel extract, moringa seed extract | Type of protection: Physical | Application: Lotion

“This sunscreen has a peachy hue that blends in well with all skin tones and neutralizes the white cast that many mineral sunscreens are known for,” Jaliman says.

The lightweight mineral sunscreen is formulated with antioxidants that lessen the impact of environmental damage, and the broad spectrum coverage fends off both UVA and UVB rays.

Wearing sunscreen is the most common way to fend off the sun’s harsh rays, but it’s not the only protection method around. According to board-certified pediatrician Dr. Mona Amin, you have multiple options at your disposal.

“To naturally protect your child from the sun, avoiding direct and prolonged sun exposure is essential. This doesn’t mean you can’t go outside, though! It’s just as important for children to spend time outdoors,” Amin, who runs a podcast called PedsDocTalk, tells us. Here are a few of her go-to tips:

If you have a child under the age of 6 months, sun protection is even more important, according to Amin. Her No. 1 tip? Avoid direct sunlight as much as possible.

“You can bring an umbrella or use a stroller canopy to help offer shade,” she advises.

Much like older children, infants should ideally stay out of the sun when during its peak hours and wear UPF clothing and hats. Just make sure to check on them every once in a while to make sure they’re comfortable.

“Using sun-protective clothing is helpful, but please make sure to check that your infant is not becoming overheated. In the summer months, please encourage fluids to avoid dehydration,” Dr. Sara Siddiqui, who specializes in pediatric and adolescent medicine at NYU Huntington Medical Group on Long Island, tells us.

Of course, life happens and sometimes you will need to use sunscreen on your newborn.

“Although sunscreen for children under 6 months is not preferred, when absolutely necessary, apply a small amount of sunscreen before sun exposure. It’s best to protect their skin than to risk harm from the sun,” Amin says.

When you’re browsing through the sunscreen aisle, you’ll likely notice special sunscreens labeled “kids” or “baby.” Wondering if you can get away with using the same product as your kids and vice versa?Spilman shares some insight with us:

“Sunscreens marketed for adults are more likely to use chemical active ingredients that have been shown to penetrate the skin and are not necessarily formulated with sensitive skin in mind, so it is still best practice to use products specifically formulated for babies and kids. But any sunscreen is better than no sunscreen at all when children are exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time,” she explains.

On the other hand, adults can definitely use sunscreens that are intended for children.

“Sunscreens marketed for kids can be just as effective for adults as they are for children. In general, sunscreens marketed for use on babies and kids will more likely contain mineral-based active ingredients, avoid skin-sensitizing ingredients and be fragrance-free. Even though they are marketed for use on kids, any person, particularly those with sensitive skin, may prefer to use a babies’ or kids’ sunscreen,” Spilman says.

Kids regularly transition from one developmental phase to the next, so it’s natural for you to wonder if your child should start with a baby sunscreen, then graduate to a kids’ formula. But Siddiqui says that’s not exactly necessary.

“There is no definitive transition time for sunscreen use among babies and children. If your child’s skin is sensitive, a gentler sunscreen may be best,” she says.

Whatever you do, just make sure to choose a broad spectrum, water-resistant formula. And whether you’re using a baby or kids formula, just make sure to test it before adopting it for your child.

“Not every sunscreen will work for every child. This is especially true if your child has sensitive skin. When trying a new sunscreen, test it on a small area of your child’s skin before applying it everywhere to ensure your child doesn’t react to that particular sunscreen,” Amin says.

Your kids mean the world to you, so we took extra care while selecting our top sunscreen picks and included recommendations from the pros and real-life moms, as well as a few bestsellers that shoppers love.

While researching this guide, we consulted 11 experts and two mothers to get a well-rounded mix of opinions and also tapped into Shop TODAY’s editorial standards to ensure that you can trust these recommendations to keep your kids safe.

Chrissy Callahan covers a range of topics for TODAY.com, including fashion, beauty, pop culture and food. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, watching bad reality TV and consuming copious amounts of cookie dough.